Brian McDermott has insisted that he will take plenty of positives away from Reading's 2-1 loss to Manchester United in the FA Cup fifth round.

Goals from Nani and Javier Hernandez secured United's passage into the quarter-finals but McDermott was quick to praise his side's display at Old Trafford.

The Royals manager told BBC Radio 5 live: "We came to Manchester United and put on a good performance as well, and we're disappointed not to be coming away with a result.

"I've got loads of positives to take from this. When you're 2-0 down at Old Trafford, that can become four or five. That showed the character of our side. We put United under the cosh, and they will be well pleased to go through."

Chelsea or Middlesbrough will face United in the final eight of the competition.